Parkinson's battle ahead for Boonville mayor Pam Hendrickson

BOONVILLE, Ind. - Pam Hendrickson has been through plenty of political conflict in her 17 years as Boonville's mayor. But she's now begun fighting a much more personal battle.

About six weeks ago, Hendrickson was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease, a progressive disorder of the nervous system. The diagnosis and medication, she said, has improved her health and strength in recent days.

"I am diligently working at two exercise programs, because the doctor has informed me that exercise is as important as eating with this disease," said Hendrickson.

"I am on medication, and I feel much better than pre-diagnosis. I have a lot of hope that because of the exercise program and the medication that I can slow the progress."

The problems for Hendrickson began with weakness in her arms and legs. Her family noticed the problem as well, telling her she was smiling much less than usual. A lack of facial expressions is an early sign of Parkinson's. She mentioned the concerns to her doctor, who sent her to a neurologist. The diagnosis was immediate.

"After seeing my mother and what she went through, I was not surprised at all," Hendrickson said.

Hendrickson's mother, Maudie Winsett, died at age 84 in 2005 of Parkinson's. Hendrickson said her experience with the disease has given her a good idea of what to expect. The symptoms of Parkinson's disease can vary from person to person. Symptoms typically begin on one side of the body and usually remain worse on that side even after symptoms begin to affect both sides.

Hendrickson is a lifetime resident of Boonville. She holds a degree from Lockyear Business College and has taken continuing education classes through Ball State University and the University of Southern Indiana. She served two terms as Boonville's clerk-treasurer and is in her fifth term as mayor.

When she won her most recent election in November, Hendrickson quickly announced she would not seek a sixth term. She does not expect Parkinson's to have any impact on her duties as mayor through the end of 2015.

"If you look at me or talk to me now, you can't tell," she said. "And I think it will be that way at the end of four years."

The effects of Parkinson's include tremors, slowed motion, rigid muscles, impaired posture and more. The exact cause is unknown, though there appears to be a genetic link.

The disease can progress very slowly, especially with the right diet, medicine and exercise. Hendrickson said she's up to the challenge.

"I spoke to one lady whose husband worked 18 years after being diagnosed with Parkinson's," said Hendrickson. "And he died several years after that. So something else may get me before this disease does."